Description

Welcome to the ultimate homemade treat with a nostalgic twist! These Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars bring back the comforting flavors of school cafeteria favorites. With their chewy texture, rich peanut butter taste, and a smooth chocolate frosting, these bars are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or as a personal indulgence. Simple ingredients and easy preparation make this a must-try recipe for any dessert lover!

Ingredients

• For the Cookie Bars:Butter – 1 cup (softened)Granulated sugar – 1 cupBrown sugar – 1 cup (packed)Creamy peanut butter – 1 cupEggs – 2 largeVanilla extract – 2 teaspoonsAll-purpose flour – 2 cupsBaking soda – 1 teaspoonSalt – ½ teaspoonQuick oats – 2 cups
• For the Frosting:Butter – ½ cup (melted)Cocoa powder – ¼ cupPowdered sugar – 3 cupsMilk – ¼ cupVanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

Preparation Method

Prepare the Cookie Bars:Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.Mix in the peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, blending well.In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.Fold in the quick oats until evenly distributed.Press the dough into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.Allow the bars to cool slightly before frosting.

Make the Frosting:In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and cocoa powder.Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, until a smooth consistency is reached. Stir in the vanilla extract.Spread the frosting evenly over the warm cookie bars.Let the frosting set for about 20 minutes before slicing into squares.

Tips and Conclusion

Use chunky peanut butter if you prefer added crunch.

For a healthier twist, substitute half the butter with unsweetened applesauce.

If you love a chocolate-peanut butter combo, add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the cookie dough.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

These Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are a delicious throwback to school cafeteria treats, packed with rich peanut butter flavor and topped with a smooth chocolate frosting. Whether for a nostalgic bite or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try them today and enjoy a sweet taste of the past!